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CalOES established the Office of Access and Functional Needs (OAFN) to identify the needs of individuals with disabilities and others with access or functional needs before, during, and after disasters and to integrate them into the State’s emergency management systems. This includes using interpreters for multiple languages, including ASL, to communicate during emergencies; coordinating with local aging services providers; working to ensure shelters are accessible for all; and more.
Earn Up to $6,000 While Enhancing Your Caregiving Skills – Discover CalGrows Now!
for Free!
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Earn Up to $6,000 While Enhancing Your Caregiving Skills – Discover CalGrows Now!
for Free!
California Commission on Aging
empowered more than 11,000 California caregivers to learn new skills, enhance the care they provide, and earn as much as $6,000. But the program and incentives are ending soon.
CalGrows, an initiative under California’s Master Plan for Aging, offers more than 600 online and in-person courses at no charge to paid and unpaid caregivers. Paid caregivers can earn up to $6,000 in stipends through August 31. Thousands of caregivers working with older adults and people with disabilities have already taken advantage of this free training opportunity, and many more are eligible. There’s still time to sign up to build or improve caregiving skills.
“Caregivers are society’s unsung heroes,” said California Department of Aging (CDA) Director Susan DeMarois. “As California’s older adult population grows, there will be even more demand for trained caregivers. CalGrows was designed to help caregivers improve their skills, build their careers, and provide the best possible care to older Californians, now and in the future.”
CalGrows has made a difference in the lives of many participants seeking advanced knowledge, practical advice, and emotional support.
“I loved all the courses,” says Suzzanne, an Inland Empire worker who, like many caregivers, is older herself. “I learned so much and was able to apply it right away,” especially with families of people who were new to needing an increased level of care, she says.
Robin is a Sacramento-area caregiver who particularly appreciates learning techniques for dealing with Alzheimer’s patients. “I definitely feel more confident because I have more knowledge,” she says.
“CalGrows has helped me to be more patient,” says Marisol, a full-time caregiver in the Bay Area.
Rachel, a Chico caregiver, says she’s “learned so much about ways to deal with stress and burnout.”
California faces a caregiver shortage of 3.2 million direct care workers in the coming years. By 2030, 25% of the state’s population will be over 60, accounting for nearly 11 million people. As people live longer, more Californians will need help with everyday tasks — from taking medication and making meals to showering, dressing, and more. Thousands of caregivers, whether employed as direct care workers in the home or community or unpaid family members, have improved their knowledge and skills through CalGrows courses. And some may find new career possibilities.
CalGrows course topics include dementia, partnering with family members, cultural diversity, fall risks, addressing hoarding, maintaining work-life balance, and much more. Online classes are available in nine languages: English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Korean, Vietnamese, Russian, and Armenian.
Helping spread the word about CalGrows are participants themselves. Alphosinah, a caregiver in the San Joaquin Valley, says, “I have been recommending CalGrows training to all my colleagues, and encouraging them to use this opportunity while it is still available.”
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity. Visit calgrows.org to learn more and find out if you’re eligible to earn up to $6,000 in incentives before the August 31 deadline.
Are you comfortable with your current living situation? Housing is a significant concern for many older adults. Today, there are more options than ever, ranging from aging in place to various levels of assisted living communities. Explore the possibilities at your local Area Agency on Aging or visit Housing Options for Seniors.
Older LGBTQIA+ individuals may face discrimination or need legal support. Visit the California Civil Rights Department and Attorney General's Office to learn about protection against discrimination and hate crimes.
